An aneurysm is a dilatation of an artery. Often an aneurysm of the abdominal aorta causes no symptoms and is discovered as an incidental finding. The risk is mainly rupture, i.e. bursting of the abdominal aorta.

A one-time screening examination for dilatation of the abdominal aorta is recommended for men from the age of 65 and for women with vascular risk factors also from the age of 65; the costs are covered by health insurance.